Unidentified: Simulation-based education in forensic odontology

Abstract

We report on a prototype computer-simulated training programme in dental autopsy entitled Unidentified. This was developed to offer a simulated real-world experience of conducting dental identification procedures as a forensic odontologist. Unidentified is a tool developed as a proof of concept for a single case from an air crash disaster with a running time of 40 min to an hour. Standards of a disaster victim identification (DVI) guide and forms were followed. The game development platform ‘Unreal Engine’ was used by collaborators from a gaming enterprise and academic contributors from a leading institution in game development. Accessibility, practicality, and affordability are advantages of the training. Further developments will make ante-mortem and reconciliation phases available and expand the exercise to mass casualty incidents.